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The Synod of Alaska-Northwest

The Synod of Alaska-Northwest has embarked on a journey of radical reformation. In 2011 the seven presbyteries gathered and reflected on two principles established by the 211th General Assembly (1999): that the “focus of the life and work of the PC(USA) is on developing, encouraging, equipping, and resourcing its congregations,” and that “it is essential that simplified, flexible, and more responsive ways be found for the PC(USA) to do its work.” The presbyteries requested that the synod reduce its function to judicial process and administrative review. A new small council consisting of a ruling and a teaching elder from each presbytery was adopted at the beginning of 2013.

In the spirit of “those closest to the action are the best managers,” all ongoing ministries and unrestricted assets have been delegated and given to the presbyteries. Ministries that were driven only by a “synod-level agenda” have been allowed to end. Ministries that were vital and supported by one or more presbyteries have been taken up by them and continue to thrive.

Some think the Synod of Alaska-Northwest no longer exists. It does! It’s working! It is proving to be highly flexible and rapidly responsive when a need emerges—but it does only what its presbyteries believe they can best do together.

Let us join in prayer for:

Let us pray

Gracious God, increase our awareness of situations where we can “do it better together.” We give thanks for the relationships that develop when we unite in your service, carrying the light of your good news to a world that so desperately needs it. Amen.